The Idol of Paris is based on Paiva, Queen of Love, a novel by Alfred Schirokauer. Set in the mid-19th century, the film traces the rags-to-riches story of a girl named Theresa. Sleeping her way to the top, she becomes a highly sought-after Parisian courtesan, one worthy of the attentions of the Emperor Napoleon. But Theresa has no time for the Emperor, not with such virile lovers as Hertz around and about.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
 Michael RennieHertz | Hertz |
 Beryl BaxterTheresa | Theresa |
 Christine NordenCora Pearl | Cora Pearl |
 Miles MallesonOffenbach | Offenbach |
 Andrew OsbornAntoine | Antoine |
 Andrew CruickshankPrince Nicholas | Prince Nicholas |
 Kenneth KentEmperor Napoleon | Emperor Napoleon |
 Margaretta ScottEmpress Euginie | Empress Euginie |
 Patti MorganBellanger | Bellanger |
| GGenine GrahamBarucci | Barucci |
 Henry OscarLachman | Lachman |
 Sybille BinderMrs. Lachman | Mrs. Lachman |
 Leslie PerrinsCount Paiva | Count Paiva |